And as the number of cases continues to rise past 100 the north of this country is on lock down way and the health authorities were unable to locate patient zero.

We still have not identified this, so it is difficult to make any predictions about what the diffusion may be.

The only concrete and valid measure to be taken was to close these territories.

The prime minister has announced an emergency plan.

Towns in northern regions of Lombardy and Veneto have effectively been quarantined.

Sporting events have been canceled, businesses and schools strut and thousands told to stay at home.

Country tries to contain the virus, panic has spread and people stockpiling.

Some are worried because they've struggled to buy face masks.

The pharmacy here was open and I took advantage of that because the one next to my home finished everything already some days ago.

We're not wearing them is just a preventative measure.

In Milan, the famous fashion week has been in the balance.

Some brand streaming shows in empty theatres in Venice.

Museums have been shut on the carnival cut short panic more contagious in the virus on at this point is unnecessary.

Authorities fear the clusters of cases will spread beyond the north of the country.

Wear in touch with the Emergencies Unit of the Ministry of Health on with genital region.

I think we will have to take further measures.

We will issue a communique.

We are obviously concerned, but we're focused and we're managing the city in everybody's interest.

There's a fear factor here, too.

People are on high alert.

The number of deaths may still be low, but this is a very real impact.

Kobe, 19 is already having in Europe.

Aly Fortescue Sky News.